JuJu Watkins’ breathtaking performances are evolving college basketball, grasping the attention of both sports and entertainment icons.
At a recent USC game, her dazzling play left USC Men’s Basketball head coach Eric Musselman, actress Issa Rae, and WNBA player Kelsey Plum in awe. Here’s how Watkins has taken the basketball world by storm.
Celebrities & Athletes Alike Issa Rae & Kelsey Plum Witness JuJu Watkins’ Brilliance on the Court
Musselman, the head men’s basketball coach at USC, possibly the most prestigious school in southern California, has made a point of celebrating everything.
Musselman met with new Plum, Vanessa Bryant, the late great Kobe Bryant’s wife, and actors and actresses Kevin Hart, Rae, and Sanaa Lathan during USC’s surprise victory against the No. 1-ranked UCLA Lady Bruins.
They all came to see the young star score 38 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists in the victory.
JuJu Watkins: The Future of Women’s Basketball
Watkins, a sophomore at USC, has already established herself as one of college basketball’s brightest players. With 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, she has not only become a valuable asset to the Trojans but has also established herself as a national superstar.
Watkins has proven herself to be a generational talent by scoring from anywhere on the court, handling defensive pressure, and leading her team.
Musselman has been vocal about Watkins’ impact on the school. In an interview, he stated, “First of all, she’s the biggest star on campus.”
The USC head coach also emphasized her versatility, saying, “She’s got unbelievable body control, she can finish through contact, she can seek contact for free throws attempted, and she can stretch the defense out with three-point shooting.”
The star power in the audience highlights Watkins’ impact outside of basketball. Rae, an actress and producer known for campaigning for representation in Hollywood, was seen cheering on the young star on the court.
Great seeing Issa Rae at the Galen Center checking out @USCWBB tonight ✌️ 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝙇𝘼𝗖𝗘 𝗧𝗢 𝗕𝗘 pic.twitter.com/25fbF6wadx
— Eric Musselman (@EricPMusselman) February 14, 2025
Rae was joined by Plum, a WNBA champion who is well-versed in college basketball dominance. Plum, the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer before Caitlin Clark broke her record, is an active advocate of women’s basketball.
Her appearance at the game reflects the growing buzz around Watkins and her future in the sport.
Great seeing new @Kelseyplum10 at the @USCWBB game ✌️ 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝙇𝘼𝗖𝗘 𝗧𝗢 𝗕𝗘 pic.twitter.com/n6IdUcUTdq
— Eric Musselman (@EricPMusselman) February 14, 2025
Watkins isn’t just a rising star; she’s a game changer. And Bryant seems to understand and know that fact, too.
Great talking with Vanessa Bryant last night. Appreciate everything you do for @USC_Athletics ✌️ pic.twitter.com/kotq0jOx9l
— Eric Musselman (@EricPMusselman) February 14, 2025
Her career is only beginning, thanks to the encouragement of basketball stars, Hollywood celebrities, and an avid fan base. As she keeps prospering on the court, the basketball world is eager to see how far she can climb.
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